The Handling Of Sharp Objects In A Local Setting

Abstract

The risk of infection with sharp objects is abundant while providing healthcare services. There is absolute need for preventive measures to be in place and sharp boxes/containers have been designed to serve that purpose. However, in local health centers, the standard sharp boxes/containers are not available, and when available, are not adequate. Therefore, this article describes a newly designed container for handling sharps in local settings. The covers of locally available containers were drilled with screw-drivers to make a hole that could admit 21-23 gauge needles. The serrated edges were smoothened and then the cover of the container was sealed with adhesive tape. The body of the container was then labeled “keep out of reach of children and mentally unstable”. The design was thus a plastic container with about 200ml in volume with a height of about 11cm, able to contain over 50 disposable needles with a size about 0.8 x 40 mm each. It provides a high resistance against been piecing by the needles and therefore can be handled by health staff without fear. The containers can be disposed by burning or burying. Finally, innovations such as this local-made safety container can be used to handle sharps with minimal risk of infection. The health-workers can boast of safety in the absence of advance designed sharp containers.